What are the key features and requirements of 3GPP Release 16 for dual mode handsets?

1 Benefits of dual mode handsets

Dual mode handsets offer several advantages for users and operators, such as seamless connectivity and enhanced services for users, as well as cost efficiency for operators. Users can switch between 4G and 5G networks without losing connection or quality, depending on the availability and performance of each network. Additionally, they can enjoy faster data rates, lower latency, and higher reliability on 5G networks, while still accessing legacy services and applications on 4G networks. Operators, on the other hand, can leverage their existing 4G infrastructure and spectrum while gradually deploying and expanding their 5G networks, reducing the need for massive investments and network upgrades.

2 Challenges of dual mode handsets

Dual mode handsets, although offering a number of advantages, also pose some challenges. These include complexity due to the additional hardware and software components required to support both 4G and 5G technologies and features, which can increase design and development costs and the power consumption and size of the devices. Moreover, interoperability needs to be ensured across different regions and operators, requiring extensive testing and certification, as well as coordination among stakeholders. Additionally, security must be maintained with robust encryption, authentication, authorization mechanisms, and protection against potential threats and attacks in order to comply with regulatory and legal requirements.

3 3GPP Release 16 features for dual mode handsets

To enable the successful deployment and adoption of dual mode handsets, 3GPP Release 16 introduces several features and enhancements, such as dynamic spectrum sharing (DSS). This allows operators to use the same spectrum band for both 4G and 5G services, without requiring separate network nodes or antennas. Dual connectivity (DC) also allows dual mode handsets to connect to both 4G and 5G base stations simultaneously for improved user experience and performance. Additionally, voice over new radio (VoNR) enables voice calls over 5G networks with better voice quality, lower latency, and richer features.

4 Future outlook for dual mode handsets

As 5G networks expand and mature, and as more applications and services require higher bandwidth and lower latency, dual mode handsets are expected to become more popular in the coming years. It is estimated that they will account for over 80% of global smartphone shipments by 2025. Despite this, there are still some challenges and uncertainties that need to be addressed. These include standardization issues such as the integration of non-terrestrial networks, the support of ultra-reliable low-latency communication, and the coordination of multiple input multiple output techniques. Additionally, dual mode handsets must keep up with the rapid evolution of 4G and 5G technologies, such as massive MIMO, beamforming, network slicing, edge computing, and artificial intelligence. Finally, dual mode handsets must provide a clear value proposition for users and operators compared to single mode handsets. This depends on factors such as the availability and quality of 5G networks, affordability of dual mode handsets, demand for 5G services and applications, and the regulatory and policy environment.

5 Here’s what else to consider

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